ˈpri:mjəm n. 1 an
amount to be
paid for a
contract of
insurance. 2 a a
sum added to
interest, wages,
etc.; a
bonus. b a sum added to
ordinary charges. 3 a
reward or prize. 4 (attrib.) (of a commodity) of
best quality and therefore more expensive. øat a premium 1
highly valued;
above the usual or
nominal price. 2
scarce and in
demand. Premium
Bond (or Savings Bond)
Brit. a
government security without interest but
with a
draw for cash prizes. put a premium on 1
provide or
act as an
incentive to. 2
attach special value to. [L praemium
booty, reward (as
PRAE-, emere
buy, take)]